A sensor informs the ESP system if a roof rack has been mounted, which will cause the Audi Q5's centre of gravity to be shifted higher in keeping with the roof load of up to 100 kg (220 lb). If a roof rack is present, the ESP engages earlier in the handling limit. Without a roof load, the driver is free to tap the full dynamic potential of the Audi Q5.

Red Audi Q5 on the RoadThe Audi Q5 is capable of towing up to 2.0 tonnes; the standard hill descent control system makes it safe to navigate down steep inclines by regulating the preselected speed when driving at under 30 km/h (19 mph). The Q5 is also fitted with an advanced Trailer Stability Program designed to combat any unwanted snakeing when towing a large trailer or caravan.

Audi was originally reported that it would offer Q5 hybrid as launch model, but it was later reported that Audi suspended the plan because of unsatisfying crash test result for the nickel metal hydride batteries. In 2009, Audi announced it would resume the Q5 hybrid development.Production version would be on sale in 2012 for Japanese market.